Empire Bagel Sliders

Background and History

The Empire Bagel Slider is a contemporary twist on New York's iconic bagel sandwich, embodying the essence of a bustling city in a compact form. Originating from the rich culinary tapestry of Jewish American cuisine in the early 20th century, bagels have been a staple for New Yorkers. As demand for quick gourmet bites surged in metropolitan areas, chefs and food enthusiasts sought to miniaturize the classic bagel sandwich into a convenient slider, resulting in what we now celebrate as Empire Bagel Sliders.

Polish immigrants brought bagels to the United States, and they quickly cemented themselves in New York's culinary identity. Their circular shape symbolizes eternity, fitting considering their enduring popularity. The addition of ingredients such as smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers has become synonymous with the New York bagel experience. This slider adaptation honors those traditional flavors while allowing for creative exploration with various fillings.

Ingredients

• Mini Bagels - 12 pieces
• Smoked Salmon - 200g
• Cream Cheese - 1 cup
• Capers - 1/4 cup
• Red Onion - 1 small, thinly sliced
• Fresh Dill - 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
• Lemon - 1, juiced
• Avocado - 2, sliced
• Mixed Greens - 1 cup
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

To start crafting your Mini Bagels into delightful sliders, begin with washing and preparing your produce. Thinly slice the Red Onion and Avocado. Set aside your prepared ingredients for easy assembly.

Making the Cream Cheese Spread

1. In a medium bowl, combine the Cream Cheese, Lemon juice, and Fresh Dill. Mix until smooth and well-combined, creating a tangy, herbaceous spread.
2. Add a pinch of Salt and Black Pepper to taste. Stir gently to incorporate.

Assembling the Bagel Sliders

1. Slice each Mini Bagel in half horizontally and lightly toast them for a crisp texture that can hold the fillings without getting soggy.
2. Spread a generous portion of the cream cheese mixture on both halves of the toasted Mini Bagel.
3. Layer a slice of Smoked Salmon on the bottom half of each bagel.
4. Add a few slices of Red Onion and Avocado on top of the salmon.
5. Sprinkle a few Capers for a pop of briny flavor.
6. Add a small handful of Mixed Greens, providing both texture and freshness.
7. Drizzle a tiny amount of Olive Oil over the assembled ingredients to enhance the richness.
8. Finally, cap each slider with the top half of the Mini Bagel and press down gently to hold the slider together.

Cooking Process

No cooking time is strictly necessary for these sliders once the assembly is complete, as all elements are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature for an ideal texture contrast.

How to Enjoy

Empire Bagel Sliders are perfect for any occasion that calls for a sophisticated bite-sized dish. Whether as hors d'oeuvres for a party or a leisurely brunch, they are sure to impress. Serve them on a platter garnished with extra sprigs of Dill and a lemon wedge for guests to squeeze over at their discretion. Pair these sliders with a crisp white wine or freshly brewed iced tea for a refreshing dining experience.

These sliders are not only easy to make but also offer a refreshing and satisfying culinary adventure indicative of New York City's vibrant food scene. By incorporating traditional flavors in a modern format, the Empire Bagel Sliders honor their roots while appealing to contemporary taste preferences, ensuring they remain a beloved staple in any bite-sized menu lineup.